the rank and file
noun /ðə ˌræŋk ən ˈfaɪl/
/ðə ˌræŋk ən ˈfaɪl/
[singular + singular or plural verb]- the ordinary soldiers who are not officers
- the ordinary members of an organization
- the rank and file of the workforce
- rank-and-file members
Word Originreferring to the “ranks” and “files” into which privates and non-commissioned officers form on parade.